Following operational and investigative efforts by the Anti-Corruption Agency of the State Security Service of Georgia (SSSG), two Georgian nationals, D.K. and G.O., have been arrested on suspicion of attempting a substantial fraud.

The Security Service stated at a briefing that the case involves an alleged scheme to unlawfully obtain a significant sum of money from a foreign citizen in exchange for securing a residence permit in Georgia. D.K. reportedly promised to facilitate the permit through connections with high-ranking officials, demanding USD 8,000 in exchange.

On September 26, 2025, the foreign citizen transferred GEL 1,500 to D.K. and G.O. at their behest. Subsequently, the suspects maintained contact, insisting that additional payments were necessary, falsely claiming that officials’ involvement would guarantee residency. On October 1, 2025, in Tbilisi, the foreigner delivered a further GEL 2,500.

In total, D.K. and G.O. allegedly fraudulently acquired GEL 4,000 (approximately USD 1,500) from the victim aiming for an unlawful gain. Court-authorised covert operations captured audio and video evidence of the crime.

The investigation is ongoing under Article 19,180, Parts 2 and 3 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which stipulates penalties of 6 to 9 years’ imprisonment.

“The State Security Service remains committed to combating corruption in all its forms. We urge the public to report any such cases, especially instances where individuals falsely claim to represent high-ranking officials,” the SSSG stated.